The Norwegian bounced back from his singles defeat to Thiago Monteiro Wednesday by partnering his childhood idol to another win.
Casper Ruud’s return to the clay—in singles at least—didn’t go to plan this time around in Bastad. But the Norwegian salvaged a tough day at the office by joining forces with Rafael Nadal for another Team “Ruudal” win.
Ruud’s Wednesday at the Nordea Open began with a decisive loss at the hands of Thiago Monteiro.
The left-handed Brazilian blasted 24 forehand winners to overpower the No. 2 seed, 6-3, 6-3. Monteiro has now posted two completed victories over Top 10 opponents this season, having also knocked out Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round of the Mutua Madrid Open.
Ruud is among the contenders to make the podium at the Paris Olympics, with 11 clay-court titles to his name (two this season). He triumphed at this week’s 250-level event in 2021 and finished runner-up last year to Andrey Rublev.
Returning to the court with his childhood idol, Ruud and Nadal squeaked by Theo Arribage and Roman Safiullin, 6-4, 3-6 [12-10]. The duo, which ousted the second seeds in their debut, saved a match point at 9-10 before pulling ahead to cap off a thrilling victory.
“It was not the best beginning of the day, but very nice way to finish the day for me winning alongside Rafa,” Ruud said on court.
“Not easy to be on court after losing singles. Casper played so well this afternoon, so well done for him,” added Nadal. “We had some fun, have been an emotional match at the end, a good level of tennis against two good players. So we enjoy it.”
Talk about margins: Ruud and Nadal won more one total point than Arribage/Safiullin.
When asked about the pair’s nickname floating around, Nadal’s initially reacted in confusion.
“What is this?” the 38-year-old inquired before his partner helped clarify.
“I have Fedal and now Ruudal, so both!” laughed the 22-time major winner.
As for whether Carlos Alcaraz has reached out for tips on gelling from the start with Nadal, Ruud responded, “He’s busy probably partying after winning Wimbledon. He has all the rights to enjoy. If he wants, I’m available on the phone.”
Nadal returns to action Thursday for his second-round match with fifth seed Cameron Norrie.
